Pork Loin Chops with Peppered Maple-Mustard Glaze

Pork Loin Chops with Peppered Maple-Mustard Glaze

Good maple syrup is much, much more than just a topping for pancakes and waffles. The deep, rich flavor of dark amber Michigan maple syrup and tart apples add sweetness to tender, succulent pork loin chops. Dry mustard and mustard seed contribute their distinctive tang while a generous spike of fresh black pepper provides heat.

Preheat the grill pan over medium high heat, or prepare and light a barbecue grill. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Combine the first eight ingredients in a saucepan and cook together over moderate heat for about 5 minutes. Reduce the heat to low and continue to cook until the apples soften and become translucent and the sauce begins to thicken slightly. Remove from heat and keep warm.

Turn the pork chops in the olive oil & season with salt and pepper. Place the chops on the hot grill pan or barbecue grill and cook for 3 minutes on each side. Baste the chops with a little of the sauce and cook for a minute or two more, turning once. Transfer to a baking pan and finish cooking the chops in the preheated oven for an additional 8 - 10 minutes, or until they reach the desired level of doneness.

Remove the chops from the oven, place one chop on each plate and spoon the sauce liberally over the top. Serve immediately.